When racetrack manager Chris Roberts left Ontario for a position with Northlands in Alberta, little did he know that he'd add catch-driver to his resume
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Capping off the Monday, Sept. 5 card of harness racing at Alberta Downs was a special feature, a media/managers challenge race. Good-natured and intrepid amateur drivers ventured to Alberta Downs under the direction of ASHA's Fred Gillis, who assembled a fine field of six: Jackie Rae from 790 CFCW had the rail, Max Gibb of the Rocky Mountain Turf Club post 2, Bob Allen, owner of Alberta Downs was the local hopeful from 3, Monica Culic of Shaw TV was bravely driving for the first time from post 4, Les Butler from Evergreen Park made the long trip from Grande Prairie and was in post 5, while new GM of Northlands Park Chris Roberts had outside post 6.
As usual in these types of races in jog carts, there isn't too much sitting and looking for a trip, so Jackie Rae of course left hard from the rail, Culic came out battling in between horses while they kept Bob Allen out 3-wide until well past the half. Butler sat patiently fourth, while Gibb looked to sweep wide on the final turn and Roberts, late for the gate, played a game of catch-up.
After the action-packed three-quarters, it came down to Allen desperate for the wire and employing a two-handed line shaking urging method trying to get his charge Top Flite Justice home, while Butler ranged up on the outside with HF Gennas Shadow. Allen prevailed at the wire, hanging tough and winning it for Alberta Downs to the delight of the railbirds over Butler by about a length, making the track owner 2-for-2 lifetime in amateur races.
(with files from HRA)